Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Review
By Matthew Klein and David Salas
Brooks Glycerin Max 2Price: $199.95 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 11 oz, 312 g (men's size 9), 10 oz, 283 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 47 mm heel / 41 mm forefoot
Drop: 6 mm
Shoe Purpose: Maximal Daily Training Shoe
Pros: Highly Cushioned, Smooth Rocker, Comfortable Secure Upper, Durable Outsole
Cons: Overly Firm midsole, Narrower Upper Than Expected
RUNNING SHOE SUMMARY
The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is a maximal shoe for those who want a firmer, rockered ride for daily training and longer efforts. The DNA tuned provides a firmer ride with a snappy forefoot, while a highly rockered geometry helps roll you along. A triple jacquard mesh provides a snug, plush and comfortable fit for those who want a little more. An incredibly durable outsole and highly stable midsole round out the rest of this shoe. A different beast than its predecessor, the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 rolls you along while keeping you secure and stable.
SIMILAR SHOES: Puma MagMax Nitro 2
PAST MODEL: Brooks Glycerin Max
FIT
(To learn how a shoe should fit, check out our full podcast on fit by Matt Klein.)
Matt: The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 fits me true to size in my normal Men's US size 10. The upper is a full-length triple jacquard mesh that sits comfortably against the foot. The triple jacquard mesh is thicker and runs warm, which is great for the winter time hitting the pacific northwest. The fit is slightly snug, especially in the forefoot. The toe box is lower volume and a bit tapered. While this shoe fits true to size (unlike its predecessor), I have had some pressure on the top of my first toe. This has not caused any major problems but has been noticeable. This transitions into a slightly snug forefoot that does stretch a little. This continues into a normal width midfoot. The tongue is thick and non-gusseted. The laces tighten down well and the thick tongue does not slide too much with forward motion. However, on longer runs with turns, I have noticed a little tongue slide. The heel fits snug thanks to a ton of heel collar cushioning. The collar is slightly lower height wise with a moderately stiff counter. I did fine with the counter thanks to all the padding, although those with high heel sensitivities (Haglund deformities or insertional Achilles tendinopathy) may still be bothered. The security is fairly good thanks to the snug fit and thicker upper. The only minor issue was a tiny bit of tongue slide. The laces were easy to tighten due to the thick tongue providing protection for the top of the foot. The inner liner is quite comfortable and has been great for sockless running. The only issue again is mild tongue slippage, but that has not bothered me. Overall, this is a solid, snug-fitting, thicker upper.
Typical Size: Men's US Size 10
Shoes that have fit Matt well: On Cloudboom Strike, Asics Gel-Nimbus 27, Xero HFS, Topo Cyclone 3, Adidas Adizero Evo SL
Shoes that have fit snug: Hoka Arahi 7, Brooks Launch 11, Diadora Mythos Vigore 3
Shoes that have fit large: Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2, Adidas Agravic Speed Ultra
David: The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 fits true to size in my Men's 9.5, though does run a touch snug throughout. The upper has a slightly lower volume and a normal width throughout the platform. The slightly snug fit is counter balanced by a very plush and soft upper. The material is very soft on foot and almost feels like there is a slight amount of padding to it. For those running in warmer climates, this may be a little too warm, but it should serve most purposes. The lacing system locks down well and I had no issues with foot translation or heel slippage. Similar to the rest of the upper, the tongue is also very plush and does a good job of preventing biting from the laces. The upper material will expand a tiny bit, but you can tell this is meant to feel like it is hugging your foot. If you need extra width considerations, this may not be the shoe for you. There is a stiff heel counter, though I had no issues with rubbing or pressure into my Achilles. The general feeling of the fit of the shoe is plush, but slightly snug throughout. Personally, I do like the general feeling throughout, but I do think it could benefit from being a touch wider in the forefoot and have the material run a tad cooler.
David's Typical Size: Men's US Size 9.5
Shoes that have fit David well: Nike Vomero 17, Saucony Ride 16, Puma Velocity Nitro 3
Shoes that have fit snug: HOKA Arahi 7
Shoes that have fit large: Salomon Aero Glide
Doctors of Running Checklist
Is This a Good Shoe for Walking: Yes
Is This a Good Shoe for Standing: Yes
Is the Forefoot Flexible: No
How Flexible is the Shoe: Not Flexible
Is This a Good Heel Bevel: Yes
Recommended for Haglunds: Somewhat
Is This Shoe Orthotic Friendly: Yes
Recommended for Sockless: Yes
Durability Expectation: High
PERFORMANCE
Matt: The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is maximal stack height daily trainer. The midsole is highly cushioned, rockered and firm. Unlike the first Glycerin Max which had a bouncier and softer midsole, the Glycerin Max 2, which still features full-length DNA tuned, is firmer throughout the of the shoe. This is offset by the highly rockered and snappy forefoot which helps roll the shoe along. While this is a large shoe and it is heavier, the geometry and snappiness make it feel slightly lighter than its listed weight. However, it is still noticeably a training shoe. There is a 6mm drop, which is noticeable but offset by the large rocker (not bothering my Achilles). The heel is cushioned but firmer, offset by a large forefoot rocker. Unlike version 1, there is less posterior heel flare so the heel transitions smoothly forward. This continues into an also firmer forefoot with a slightly early forefoot that rolls you forward nicely. There is no flexibility to the forefoot and the toe spring is minimal, so those with toe mobility issues will do well in this shoe. With the larger size and weight, the Glycerin Max 2 has been best for recovery, easy and long runs. While the firmer ride can be a bit harsh over extended runs, there is still plenty of cushioning and the inherent stability actually feels great over long miles. What has been more surprising is that picking up the pace in this shoe isn't terrible.
My first run was actually a hill workout that went extremely well despite being sick. The forefoot is response and snappy thanks to the firmness and rocker geometry. This makes strides and fartlek workouts where all out speed isn't the priority. Trying to hold that pace becomes more difficult, so anything faster than uptempo efforts are difficult in this shoe. The outsole traction is good on both wet and dry road. I have unintentionally used this shoe on multiple trails and found that on smooth trails they actually do fine. This may be due to the ribbed outsole patches in the forefoot. On more technical terrain this is not a good option but does fine on smooth terrain. The outsole patches on this shoe are extremely tough. I have 50 miles on my pair at the time of this review and there is not wear on the outsole or the exposed midsole. With the midsole holding its form, I expect this shoe to last far longer than others. So far, in combination with its firmer midsole, this shoe is acting like a tank durability wise.
David: The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is a maximum stacked daily training shoe. The shoe operates off of a rocker profile that is especially noticeable in the forefoot. The DNA Tuned midsole is designed to be softer in the heel and more responsive in the forefoot. The midsole does accomplish this in the forefoot, but does feel really firm throughout the entire length of the platform. The foam is very protective to impact however. I have found that the shoe feels great in rhythm at easy paces and does feel like it runs lighter than the listed 11 ounces. I do believe this is in part due to the forefoot rocker. The heel rocker is gradual and feels like it is just rounded enough to keep the rearfoot from being too clunky. I did scuff the heel a little initially but as I broke the shoe in the heel did smoothen out. The forefoot rocker is much sharper and makes you feel like you are rolling quickly into the next step. This does create a quicker heel rise and makes your stride feel more lope like. Normally I do like this sensation, and that is consistent with this model.
The outsole traction is great on the Brooks Glycerin Max 2. I had a squeak from the rubber contacting the ground for the first couple of miles that I ran. The rubber has continued to hold very well as I have continued running. The platform is wide underfoot. There is mild to moderate sole flaring that is noticeable as well. I do not notice as much sidewalls in this model as the previous model. The firmer midsole and sharper forefoot rocker do make for a stable and consistent ride. Those that want a protective but firm rockered ride have that here.
STABILITY
(Learn more about stability in our full guide)
Matt: The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is a stable neutral shoe and borderline stability/guidance shoe. The sole is quite wide, with a filled-in midfoot. The medial outsole coverage at the midfoot and not lateral creates slight medial stability. The sidewalls are also quite large with full length medial sidewalls and lateral sidewalls from the heel to midfoot. The medial side is far more prominent, which provides resistance to medial motion from heel to forefoot. This has felt excellent to me as someone who needs forefoot support, although those sensitive to sidewalls should know the one in the forefoot is prominent. The rockered, firmer and torsionally stiff ride further add to the overall stable ride. If you want a highly stable shoe that is a borderline full length medial stability shoe, the Glycerin Max 2 may work for you.
David: The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is intended to be a neutral shoe, but does run pretty stable throughout. The midsole is very firm and you oddly feel connected to the ground for how high the shoe is. The wider base also helps with giving you a sturdy platform to lever from. The rocker geometry is sound and makes for a predictable and rhythmic step. The upper is also reliable underfoot and does provide a good lockdown. I have not had any issues with stability in the Brooks Glycerin Max 2.
Thoughts as a DPT: Efficiency with Rockered Geometries
By Matthew Klein
Footwear comfort means different things to different people. This is one of the reasons guiding people based on their own interpretations of shoes helps predict success in footwear. A great guide for this is the RUN-CAT scale that we frequently reference (Bishop et al., 2020). When it comes to efficiency, most of the previous research has focused on softer and more bouncy (resilient) foams (Worobets et al., 2014). This has come from all the studies on super shoes, with additional attention paid to the stiffening agents (plates). What has had less attention is the rocker geometries. We know that rocker geometries redistribute forces, mostly shifting them from the foot/ankle (especially the Achilles tendon) up to the knee (Sobhani et al., 2017). It is less clear exactly how they affect rocker geometry. Some people not used to them may have a decrease in running economy, while others may have a significant (1%) increase in running economy (Sobhani et al., 2014; Flores, 2025).
Theoretically, they should reduce the amount of muscular work that comes from the foot and ankle and increase it at the hip and knee. The variation may come from what lower extremity movement strategy the individual runner uses. While most runners tend to use the ankle plantarflexor muscles (soleus) significantly at slower speeds, some runners may use alternatives, like more knee extension/flexion to facilitate forward gait. This may be for a variety of reasons, such as calf weakness or better strength at the knee/hip. The runners who use more of a hip/knee strategy (or are forced to because of impairment or injury) may find that rockered geometries provide better running efficiency. Those who use more of a classic ankle strategy may benefit from less rockered geometry. Human beings are adaptable and with exposure, may learn to adjust their mechanics. How much each person can adjust will depend on their ability to learn and adapt.
Flores, N. (2025). Does the runners’ perception of footwear forward rocker influence metabolic power?. Footwear Science, 17(sup1), S154-S155.
Sobhani, S., Bredeweg, S., Dekker, R., Kluitenberg, B., van den Heuvel, E., Hijmans, J., & Postema, K. (2014). Rocker shoe, minimalist shoe, and standard running shoe: a comparison of running economy. Journal of science and medicine in sport, 17(3), 312-316.
Sobhani, S., van den Heuvel, E. R., Dekker, R., Postema, K., Kluitenberg, B., Bredeweg, S. W., & Hijmans, J. M. (2017). Biomechanics of running with rocker shoes. Journal of Science and Medicine in sport, 20(1), 38-44.
Worobets, J., Wannop, J. W., Tomaras, E., & Stefanyshyn, D. (2014). Softer and more resilient running shoe cushioning properties enhance running economy. Footwear Science, 6(3), 147-153.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Matt: Although the firmness of the Glycerin Max 2 is a little surprising, the shoe overall is a large upgrade over the previous version. The upper length issue has been fixed, the shoe is more rockered with a smoother forefoot (thanks to the rocker being longer) and this shoe is so stable it might as well have a "GTS" label. My only suggestions are around the width and the firmness of the midsole. I appreciate that the length change, but the toe box got narrower. I would suggest adding a little more room in the toe box and forefoot for some toe wiggle room. The DNA tuned is far firmer than it needs to be. While I don't want the midsole to be mushy like some people reported version 1 was, I think the heel of this shoe needs to be softer. I don't feel the "larger cell" and "extra cushioning" that I would expect out of a shoe with this tall of a stack height. The firmer forefoot is fine given how snappy it is, but the heel and potentially the entire shoe need to be softened just a tad for comfort. I want to see DNA Tuned increase its responsiveness in the meantime to aid in the efficient ride that is set up nicely by the rocker geometry.
David: I actually really enjoyed the new Brooks Glycerin Max 2. I tend to gravitate toward firmer rockered shoes and this does that well. I do think there could be some improvements to the upper though. The upper runs very warm and is almost too plush on foot. For walking and daily mileage this will be totally fine. My reservations are mostly with long run outings as the foot begins to swell and more heat is created. The fit does feel a touch too snug for how plush it is. The foot is held well, but I would like a little more width and volume in the forefoot. The upper works as is, but if I am being picky those are some things I would alter.
WHO IS THIS SHOE FOR?
Matt: The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is for those who want a maximal stack height, rolling, snug-fitting, extremely stable shoe. The upper will work best for those with normal to narrow feet who want a thicker and secure upper. The midsole will work best for those who want a firmer, but highly rockered ride that rolls along. The stability is extremely high and while this is technically a stable neutral shoe, it really functions as a mild to moderate guidance/medial stability shoe. This level may not work for those that are sensitive to stability methods, although Brooks has been working on trying to make all their shoes stable without interfering with people's gait. The firmer ride is offset a bit by the rocker, but is still unique among maximal stack height shoes. It functions mostly as a highly durable, workhorse shoe for mileage for those who want a strongly rockered shoe. The price is justified with how long this shoe will last (I will get a 100 mile review soon), although the DNA Tuned may be considered a step back in this version. Those who want a softer ride will do better with the original version, while those who want the better upper and more rockered ride will enjoy version two.
David: The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is a maximum stacked daily trainer for those that like firm rockers. The forefoot rocker is very noticeable and makes you feel like you are constantly rolling into the next step. The shoe does run stable for how high up it is as well. There is a wider underfoot platform that is coupled with mild sole flare. I really like this shoe for settling into an easy pace. The midsole and outsole feel very durable and this shoe can certainly take a hit. The upper is very plush and a touch snug on foot. It may be too warm for some, but it should work well enough for most people. For me, this is one of my favorite daily trainers to start the year as I do like firmer but protective rockered experiences.
GRADES
Matt
Fit: B+ (Snug, thick, padded but comfortable and secure upper)
Performance: A- (Firm but snappy forefoot with rockered, efficient ride)
Stability: A [Stable Neutral / Moderate Guidance] (Wide base, full-length medial sidewall, stiff/rockered ride make for a highly centered shoe that is a borderline stability shoe with how much medial stability is present )
Value: A- (Extremely durable shoe that runs lighter than its listed weight and the rockered firmness gives it a unique place)
Personal: B+ (I love how stable this shoe is but it is really firm for how much midsole there is)
Overall Design: A-
David
Fit: B (Upper is very plush and can run warm. Snug fit gives a nice hold but it could be more spacious in the forefoot. Otherwise it's a very nice fitting upper with a good lockdown.)
Performance: A- (The rocker profile in the forefoot is great. The firmer protection underfoot is great. The heel could be a touch smoother.)
Stability: A (Firmer midsole, wider base platform, sole flaring, good upper lockdown. The shoe rolls with some gentle guidance along the way.)
Value: A (Durable and should be able to give you your moneys worth if it works for you as a daily training shoe.)
Personal: A- (I really enjoy the ride and platform. The upper could be a little more spacious in the forefoot with more breathability, but I am really enjoying my miles in it.)
Overall Design: A-
SHOP | SUPPORT DORBrooks Glycerin Max 2Price: $199.95 at Running Warehouse
Shop Men | Shop Women
*Using the link to purchase helps support Doctors of Running. Thanks so much!
Check out Gear We Love
Naked Belt The best way to carry your phone and goods on the run. No bounce and various sizes for waist.
Saysky Running Gear: We were really taken aback by this Scandinavian company's ultra-thin, durable performance clothing
Skratch Recovery, Coffee Flavor: Mental and physical boost post run. Coffee flavor is excellent and goes great straight into a fresh brewed cup
goodr Sunglases: Run in style with goodr's super fun sunglasses.
Feetures Socks: Massively grippy socks that will make you feel more one with the shoe
Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Water Bottle: Perfect for long runs when you need hydration in the summer
Trigger Point Foam Roller: Help get those knots out post-run and feel better for tomorrow
Ciele Hat: Our team's favorite running hat of choice!
Fractel Hats: Our team's wider fitting running hat of choice!
FURTHER READING
Find all Shoe Reviews at Doctors of Running here.
Thanks for reading!
FOLLOW DOCTORS OF RUNNING ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: Doctors of Running
Youtube Channel: Doctors of Running
Instagram: @doctorsofrunning
LinkedIn: Doctors of Running
Strava: Doctors of Running
Podcast: Virtual Roundtable
Pinterest: Doctors of Running
PODCAST
Check out the Doctors of Running Podcast to find more reviews, interviews, and running features from the team.
Visit our Podcast Page
Find us on Apple
Find us on Spotify
Contact us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com
NEXT: David's Favorite Shoes of 2025
